There are plenty of small steps you can take to reduce holiday stress and ensure you and your guest have a great Thanksgiving feast.

By TAMMI KATE LEDFORD

There are plenty of small steps you can take to reduce holiday stress and ensure you and your guest have a great Thanksgiving feast. A well laid plan is a must, make a guest list and from the number of guests, plan your menu. Remember to allow for extra unexpected guests, it always seems you’ll have one or two that tag along with someone you’ve invited for dinner. These preparatory measures will ease the tension and help you create a complete shopping list and decide if you’re doing all of the cooking or if you go pot luck style and others will be bringing dishes. Two weeks ahead of time you should have taken inventory of your dinnerware, kitchen tools, and gadgets, spices and other staples in your pantry, and don’t forget to count chairs! If you plan to shop early it will reduce impulse buying and you can avoid the packed crowds and reduce your wait time, plus if you wait too long you run the risk of some of the items you need being sold out. Try to do your shopping early morning or late evening at least one week before the big day; this will help avoid crowded stores as well.

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